Help for Heat Cramps

Have you ever had a muscle in your arm or leg go into spasm in the middle of an exercise routine or during another kind of strenuous activity?

That means you've experienced heat cramps, which are painful and involuntary spasms caused by low salt levels in your muscles.

So if you perspire heavily, you're probably more prone to the problem because sweating drains your body's salt and moisture. That's why sodium-laden sports drinks are so popular with athletes -- they replenish the body's supplies.

Actually, even if you aren't a big sweater, a lack of fluid can cause your muscles to seize up. In this case, heat cramps may be a symptom of heat exhaustion.

The spasms usually affect muscles in your calves, arms, abdomen and back, although they can occur when you're exerting any muscle group.

If heat cramps creep up on you, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) offers this advice:

• Quit exercising, and rest quietly in a cool place.
• Drink clear juice or a sports beverage.
• Don't resume any strenuous activity for a few hours after the heat cramps subside. Further exertion may lead to heat exhaustion or heat stroke.
• If the cramps don't pass after an hour, get medical help.

For people with heart problems or on low-sodium diets, the CDC recommends you seek medical attention for heat cramps.

More information

To find out more about heat cramps, visit the U.S. National Center for Environmental Health.

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